Firebrand PML-N leader Talal Chaudhry disqualified for five years in contempt case

The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Thursday held PML-N leader Talal Chaudhry in contempt of court, and sentenced him till the rising of the court, which renders him disqualified to hold public office for a period of five years, DawnNewsTV reported.

During his speech at a PML-N rally in Jarranwala in January 2018, Chaudhry had said: "There was an era when the Kaabah was full of idols. Today, the judiciary, which is the country's highest institution, is also full of PCO [Provisional Constitution Order] idols."

On February 6, the Supreme Court had issued a show-cause notice to Chaudhry, ordering him to file his response.

On July 11, the apex court, after hearing Chaudhry's arguments, had close the case and reserved its judgement, which it delivered today, sentencing him till the rising of the court — a punishment that carries with it an automatic five-year disqualification under Article 63 (1)(g) of the Constitution.